Texans are well accustomed to the sweltering heat that sets in as soon as the calendar says June, so what do we do? Cool off in some of the best swimming holes in Texas, of course! We've compiled a list of the best places to swim in Texas that you just can't miss this summer, so make sure to check them out!
1. Hamilton Pool Preserve (Dripping Springs)
This Texas swimming hole is definitely one of Texans' favorites to take a dip in when summer comes around! With ancient limestone rocks surrounding the pool, gorgeous jade green water, and the stunning waterfall that cascades over the limestone rocks, this swimming hole just can't be beat in my humble opinion.
Find out more about Hamilton Pool Preserve.
2. Jacob's Well (Wimberley)
The only real place to swim here is in the 200-foot-deep well, but the drive out is still worth it. Some people like to jump from the rocks up above, but do so at your own risk, of course. Others like to dive down into the depths and explore the openings to other passages, but most people just chill by the well and contemplate jumping off the rocks or not. This is one of the best swimming holes in Texas; I can attest to that!
Get more information about what Jacob's Well is all about.
3. Krause Springs (Spicewood)
This swimming hole and the surrounding land is owned by the Krause family, but they allow guests for a small fee, and you can even camp on the grounds if you wish! Several springs feed the natural pool, which makes it nice and cool and one of the best places to swim in Texas.
Learn more about Krause Springs.
4. Balmorhea State Park Swimming Pool (Toyahvale)
Don't worry, we didn't forget all you folks way out west... if you live in the desert of Texas, you probably visit this place quite often. This state park boasts the largest spring-fed swimming pool in the world, and the water is crystal-clear. Definitely check this Texas swimming hole out if you live out that way or are just passing through!
Get more details on Balmorhea State Park.
5. Barton Springs Pool (Austin)
Barton Springs Pool is a 3-acre pool that's filled entirely with water from nearby springs. The pool is part of Barton Creek and is an incredibly refreshing spot to cool off on a hot Texas day.
6. Blue Hole (Wimberley)
Cypress trees line this beautiful Texas treasure, and the water is nice and clear...and pretty chilly, too. One of the best swimming holes in Texas, there's a rope swing for those that love to make a big splash, and there are plenty of places to lay your towels and coolers on the grass. I'm so ready to get in the water now...How about you?!
Get more information about visiting Blue Hole.
7. Frio River at Garner State Park (Concan)
Going to Garner State Park in the summer is brutal without taking a dip in the Frio River. You can kayak, tube, or swim in it, and with the backdrop of the limestone cliffs and mesas, you couldn't ask for a better place to immerse yourself in nature. Be sure to check out one of the best places to swim in Texas!
Learn more about Garner State Park.
8. Barton Creek Greenbelt (Austin)
If you hike a little ways down the trail at the Greenbelt, you'll find an awesome little swimming hole to bask in that's fed by Barton Creek. There are even mini waterfalls that pour over the rocks, and the water is usually a nice blue-green. I've been to this Texas swimming hole, but haven't been swimming yet. The water looks so inviting!
Read further on about Barton Creek Greenbelt.
9. Devil's Waterhole in Inks Lake State Park (Burnet)
This swimming hole is surrounded by craggy rocks, which are fun to jump off of if you aren't afraid of heights. So much more than just one of the best swimming holes in Texas, you can also swim in Inks Lake if the swimming hole gets too overcrowded, and when Valley Spring Creek is running, you can hike to beautiful waterfalls upstream of the lake.
Learn more about Inks Lake State Park.
10. The Quince (Camp Wood)
This 15-foot deep swimming hole fed by the Nueces River is located opposite the Rocky River Camp off Texas Highway 55, and there's no entrance fee! Locals love it because it doesn't get as crowded as some of the other Texas swimming holes. Get yourself more acquainted with the Nueces River.
11. Rio Vista Park (San Marcos)
Pretty awesome shot, right? This is an excellent place for tubing, swimming, white water rafting, and kayaking. There's even a tube chute at Rio Vista Falls, which is a must-do according to the locals! This spot is really one of the best places to swim in Texas.
Find more information about visiting Rio Vista Park
12. Burger's Lake (Fort Worth)
This one-acre spring-fed swimming pool is a popular hangout for Fort Worth residents, probably because there are fountains, diving boards, water slides, sandy beaches, and plenty of shade. It's a great Texas swimming hole to take the family!
Learn more about Burger's Lake.
13. Lake Tejas (Colmesneil)
East Texas gets ridiculously hot and humid in the summer, which is why people have flocked to this swimming hole for decades. As you can see, there's a diving board, slide, and plenty of places to cool off here! I've been, and the pine trees surrounding the lake make it a peaceful, relaxing place to cool off in the summer. I'd definitely call it one of the best swimming holes in Texas.
Discover more about Lake Tejas.
14. Rio Grande River at Big Bend National Park
The hot springs pictured here are consistently a toasty 105 degrees, so summer might not be the best time to visit. If you want to take a dip, I'd recommend going in the early morning or early evening to fully enjoy the experience at one of the best swimming holes in Texas.
Read further on about the Rio Grande River.
15. Blue Hole (Georgetown)
There are quite a few Blue Holes in Texas, and this is another one of the best places to swim in Texas. It's bordered by limestone bluffs along the San Gabriel River, and there's no entrance fee.
Read more about Blue Hole Park.
There you have it, y'all! What other Texas swimming holes do you think should have made the list? What do you think are the best places to swim in Texas? Tell us in the comments!
Yearning for more? Check out these other must-see summer destinations in Texas.
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